HI HB2078

Amends penalties for violations of aquatic resources laws under Hawaii Revised Statutes sections 187A-13, 188-70, and 190-5 by allowing courts to require defendants to complete an aquatic resources educational class administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources in addition to or instead of paying monetary fines.

Authorizes courts to direct defendants to perform community service administered by the Department of Land and Natural Resources as an alternative to paying monetary fines for aquatic resources violations.

Removes the requirement that fines "shall not be suspended or waived" from all three affected statutes, giving courts discretion to modify penalties.

Maintains existing penalty amounts: $250-$1,000 for general aquatic resource violations and $100-$500 for fishing and game violations depending on offense number.

Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that existed before the bill's effective date.